Yeghegis to Smbataberd Fortress and TsakhatsKar Monastery

The trail starts from Yeghegis Town in Vayots-Dzor province, it leads to Smbataberd Fortress (5th century) and TsakhatsKar Monastery (10th century). The terrain is moderate and assures amazing views of Teksar Mountains. Zorats Church of Yeghegis (14th century) is right in the beginning of the trail. 

The trail is moderate and appropriate for hiking, however, beware of bears especially in early morning and late-night hikes.

How to get there?

The trail starts from Yeghegis town, for about 122 km (2 hours) from Yerevan, via E117 interstate road.

Trail characteristics

6.7 km

6-7 hours (hiking) back & forth 

min: 1565m, max: 2080m, ascent: 734m, descent: 219m

Hiking

* marking signs (posts)

What to do?

The trail is appropriate only for hiking. 

What to see around?

Within the trail you will come across with cultural monuments & attractions listed below:

  • Zorats Church, 14th century
  • Smbataberd Fortress, 5th century
  • TsakhatsKar Monastery Complex, 10th century, including Saint Hovhannes church (989 c.) & Saint Karapet church (10th c.)
  • Yeghegis River 

Where to stay?

You might stay at B&B’s and guesthouses in the region. For more information check out our database of B&B’s.

Nearby destinations

There are several destinations and hiking trails in the region; it worth you spend several days in the region.

  • Aghavnadzor to Hors town
  • Shatin to Shativank Trail
  • Vernashen to Spitakavor Monastery & Proshaberd Fortress
  • Amaghu to Noravank Monastery

Flora & Fauna

To be updated shortly

Elevation profile

Photo album 

GPS track

Follow the GPS track of this trail via the below map; however, keep in mind to consult with local guides before heading to the trail.

Credits

Trail marked by AHA Armenia

Photo credit: Suren Khazarchian

Information generated by: Hikers.am

Leave No Trace

  • Plan ahead & be prepared
  • Dispose the waste properly
  • Leave what you find
  • Minimize campfire impacts
  • Respect the wildlife
  • Be considerate of other visitors

Roads conditions

It is winter time! Check out road conditions before heading to the road! Beware of the snow & ice layer!

Vanadzor - Alaverdi section of the M6 Interstate highway stretching from Yerevan to Georgian border is temporarily closed. You can use Vanadzor-Stepanavan-Odzun-Alaverdi bypassing road.

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